73a Leyland Pressure Refueller

[Idris]

This promises to be a really interesting model, with far more than the four variations listed by Nick.

The NAMC’s “Catalog of all Series Matchbox Models” (first edition) has a code 73-1-a an unlisted variation which does not have the brace between the cab. This would be the new code 1, with all other variations moving down the table one place.) The other two codes are simply noted as having a brace, the difference between them being the shade of RAF blue used. All models are noted as having a silver-trimmed front bumper.
The AIM “1-75 Series Regular Wheels” catalogue (second printing, 1983) does not list the "no brace" variation, but does state the following: "The first issued models contained broken off rear base sections which were then strengthened. These were called open end although can be found on both 'a' & 'b' models" (which match Nick's codes 1 and 2). Looking at the drawing which accompanies this note, the problem looks to be associated with the rear bumper failing to form/breaking off. Silver trim is notes as being both present and absent from the front bumper.
Neither Houghton’s “Definitive Guide to Matchbox Toys” (2007) nor Stannard includes variations not already covered by Nick.
U.K. Matchbox did not examine the model.

Now, in addition, Forum members have identified a rectangular barrel tool release hole in the baseplate at the cab end of the tank which may be either open or closed, and additional infill between the top of the rear bumper and the tank which may be either present or absent.
As if that were not enough, there are the trim variations: gold trim to the radiator grille and front bumper (found by a Forum member), silver trim to the front radiator and bumper, silver trim to the rear bumper (I don't know what the front trim is for this variation), and no trim whatsoever.

I suggest that the way forward with this model is for members to inspect the models in their collection, reporting back using Nick's variation codes with notes of the deviations. In addition, we urgently need a photograph of the "...broken off rear base section..." for reference. Please don't forget the trim when reporting your models!

[Diecast]

Hi Hugh
Thanks for the short but very concentrated and informative summary of the 73a.
Antonin

[Idris]

I would like to point out that this is now a topic that everyone can make a worthwhile contribution to. All you need is a 73a.
So come on, all you less experienced collectors and all you forum lurkers. This is your chance to make a significant contribution to this Forum and to Nick's online catalogue by helping identify just what variations of this model are actually out there.

[fixer]

Mine is Nicks code 2 (thicker brace) with the rear bumper slot filled in, rectangular slot cast into the base is filled in and no trim on the front

[mbox2000]

Mine is the same as Reg except with silver trim to front bumper

[nickjones]

I attempted to update the 71a pressure refueller page but I need to know if the open and closed rectangular hole under the middle axle is common to all 73a's or was the model modified at sometime to open up or close the hole.

[kerbside]

hello Nick more details on the closed rear between the tanks.

1st between the storage cab and the tank on the normal one the brace is a thin flat one, but on the closed rear one this brace is a round one.

2nd the two bases the open hole and the closed hole this is because between the chassis and the tank there is a flat plate cast, so this covers the hole.



In this gap with the eye there is a hole, but on the closed rear version this hole is covered giving rise to the flat plate being cast from here to the rear end making the end section closed, and as you can see the bumper part is Silver trim.

As is the grille on one, the closed rear one is always on the right hand side.







George T.

[Taniwha]

I have only one with the open hole - all of my 73a models are Stannard code 2 - the rounded brace.

I do love this particular casting - easily my favourite of the military models.

Cheers,
Gavin

[artherfonz]

hi all,
I have the following

Nicks code 1,small brace, grey plastic wheels ,open hole, no infill, silver trim to front bumper only.
Nicks code 2,thicker brace, grey plastic wheels, open hole, no infill, no silver trim.
cheers Steven

[nickjones]

Thanks Steven.
as they say, "every little helps"